Main beams are the two long, sweeping points growing from the normal pedicels on both sides of a buck's head, from which all typical points grow. The length of the main beam is obtained by measuring from the lowest point on the burr, over the outer curve of the beam, to the most distant point or tip of the main beam.

The lowest point on the burr is established by holding the antler, rack, or mounted head to approximate the deer's head being parallel with the earth, and then establishing the point on the bottom of the burr closest to the ground. That is the lowest point on the burr.

Locate the place where the centerline of the outer curve of the main beam intersects with the lowest edge of the burr, and begin measuring from there. Mark the cable flush with the tip of the main beam or attach an alligator clip at that point and measure the cable with a 1/4-inch-wide steel measuring tape. The cable will follow the contour of the main beam perfectly. The use of a cable instead of a steel tape for this measurement eliminates the awkward pivoting of the tape and allows a more perfect measurement.

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